Angola will host direct peace talks on March 18 between the Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 rebels. The Congolese government acknowledges receiving the invitation, although its participation remains unconfirmed. The ongoing crisis has resulted in significant violence, displacement, and human rights concerns, with implications for regional stability.
Angola has stated that direct peace talks between the Democratic Republic of Congo and the M23 rebels are scheduled to commence in the Angolan capital on March 18. This announcement follows the Congolese presidency’s acknowledgement of receiving the proposal from Angola, which has been attempting to mediate a long-lasting ceasefire in the region.
The Angolan initiative aims to de-escalate tensions between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, the latter of which has been accused—though it denies—of supporting the Tutsi-led M23 rebel group. Until now, the Congolese government has consistently rejected direct negotiations with M23; however, recent developments suggest a willingness to consider dialogue.
Tina Salama, a spokesperson for President Felix Tshisekedi, confirmed that although an invitation from Angola has been received, the government’s participation remains unconfirmed. M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa expressed confidence in the negotiations, stating they represent the only civilized option to address the ongoing crisis, which has dramatically escalated since January.
An extraordinary summit of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) heads of state is also scheduled, aiming to address the conflict in Eastern DRC. This summit, chaired by Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, will focus on the role of regional armed forces in the region.
The M23 has significantly advanced in Eastern Congo, capturing major capitals like Goma and Bukavu and impacting smaller villages. The conflict has deep historical roots, stemming from the aftermath of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and exacerbated by competition for Congo’s valuable mineral resources, including coltan and cobalt, vital for modern technology and green energy.
The UN humanitarian affairs office reported at least 7,000 fatalities since January and over 600,000 displacements since November due to the fighting. Human Rights Watch raised alarms regarding the deteriorating civic space in areas controlled by M23, highlighting the suppression of civil society and targeted actions against journalists and activists, sometimes with Rwandan assistance.
Amidst these tensions, neighboring countries including Burundi, Uganda, and South Africa have stationed troops in Eastern DRC. There are increasing fears of an escalation into a regional conflict akin to the Congo wars of the 1990s and early 2000s, which resulted in millions of deaths.
In conclusion, Angola’s facilitation of direct peace talks between the Democratic Republic of Congo and the M23 rebels marks a significant diplomatic effort to address the ongoing crisis. The backdrop of regional conflicts and humanitarian concerns, including casualties and displacements, illustrates the urgent need for resolution. As discussions proceed, the potential implications for stability in not just Congo but the broader Southern African region remain critical.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
